Penguins are most commonly associated with Antarctica and other polar destinations, but did you know that they can also be spotted in South Africa? That’s right, the African continent is home to a significant colony of penguins that can be found in its southernmost country.
If you are planning a trip to South Africa and want to spend time up-and-close with these adorable animals, add these spots to your list of places to visit!
Boulders Beach
Just outside of the big city of Cape Town is a small beach that happens to host a colony of over 3,000 African penguins. This beautiful beach, surrounded by granite boulders, is a place where the penguins can be seen and observed up close and personal, but always with respect.
Stony Point
Betty’s Bay is a small town in the Western Cape province of South Africa which is known for the Stony Point Nature Reserve, an especially great place to see these little birds. A protected conservation area for penguins, you’ll be able to see a large number of these birds and your $1.50 entrance fee will go towards protecting them.
Dassen Island
A few miles off of the South African mainland and an hour or so north of Cape Town is Dassen Island, a nature reserve which can be visited by boat as part of a private trip. If you’re lucky enough to go, you’ll be able to observe a breeding colony of African penguins in their natural habitat.